The poster has more than a touch of the Dark Knight Rises about it, but the destruction of London forming Star Trek’s iconic shape just about manages to keep it original.

The man in the centre could be Cumberatch’s villain, about which not much has been revealed other than the intriguing on-set photos that surfaced earlier this year.

His long dark coat and trousers do look similar to the ones the British actor was seen wearing as he did battle with Spock in the behind-the-scenes snaps.

In the distance, London landmarks can be seen, including the London Eye.

Also included on the poster is the film’s release date, confirmed as May 17 next year.

The last news we heard of Star Trek Into Darkness was from its director J.J. Abrams confirming that footage from the sci-fi sequel will be screened before IMAX performances of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.

The official synopsis for the film was revealed last month, describing the film as ‘an explosive action thriller’.It goes on: ‘As our heroes are propelled into an epic chess game of life and death, love will be challenged, friendships will be torn apart and sacrifices must be made for the only family Kirk has left: his crew.’Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Zoe Saldana and Simon Pegg all reprise their roles for the sequel alongside new cast members Cumberbatch, Alice Eve and Peter Weller.